Dried anchovies, also known as “Mutu” in Persian, are small fish that live near the coast and in shallow parts of the sea. They are highly popular due to their high nutritional value. The fishing season for Mutu begins in spring in the Hormozgan province of Iran, with the main fishing areas being the cities of Parsian, Bandar Lengeh, Qeshm, and Jask.
The properties of Mutu fish have made them a popular choice for consumers. In addition to their high nutritional value, Mutu fish have a wide range of industrial applications, including the production of fishmeal, cosmetics, and agricultural fertilizers. These factors, combined with their affordability, have made Mutu fish a highly sought-after product.
Culinary Uses
Mutu fish are commonly used in the preparation of “Mahiyaweh,” a type of fish sauce that is spread on local bread. Sometimes, the head and tail of fresh Mutu fish are removed, the belly is cleaned, and the fish is fried in oil and onions. Tamarind juice, tomato paste, and green pepper may also be added to the dish, which can be served with rice. Despite its simple preparation, Mahiyaweh is considered a delicious and popular dish in Qeshm.
Biological Characteristics
Mutu fish have a number of distinctive biological features, including:
An inferior mouth
A protruding upper jaw
An elongated premaxillary bone
Variable or absent jaw teeth
10 to 50 gill rakers on the lower part of the first gill arch
7 to 19 gill arches
A silvery stripe on the sides that extends from the base of the caudal fin
Lack of a lateral line
Greenish color with blue reflections due to the silver stripe
Length of 2 to 40 centimeters
Single dorsal fin
Forked caudal fin
Loose, circular scales
Diet
Mutu fish feed on plankton and, rarely, newly hatched fish.
Processing and Uses
Mutu fish are primarily used for human consumption. They are widely used in cooking and are a key ingredient in many dishes and sauces.
In southern Iran, Mutu fish are typically sold in dried form. After being caught with nets, the fish are spread on the sand near the seashore and dried under direct sunlight. Once dried, the sand is removed, the fish are crushed and ground, and the resulting powder is used in various local dishes. Canned Mutu fish, processed industrially in oil or brine, is also available in the market.
Other Uses
Anchovies can be used as bait for larger fish.
They are classified as oily fish.
Due to their high nutritional value and protein content, they are used in the livestock industry as feed for animals and poultry.
Anchovy oil is used in the production of cosmetics and toiletries.
Mutu fish play a significant role in the economy and are exported in dried and chip form to countries such as Sri Lanka, India, Oman, and Kuwait.
Additional Information
The scientific name for Mutu fish is Engraulidae.
They are closely related to anchovies, which are also small, schooling fish.
Mutu fish are an important source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for human health.
